Can youths sign themselves out from an inpatient mental health facility without the consent of their parents?

  • Any minor thirteen years or older who voluntarily admitted to an evaluation and treatment facility with the consent of his/her parents may give notice of intent to leave at any time.
    • The notice has to be written and intent discerned.
    • The professional person must discharge the minor from the facility immediately upon receiving the notice of intent to leave. RCW 71.34.500-530
  • Any minor thirteen years or older who voluntarily admitted to an evaluation and treatment facility without the consent of his/her parents may give notice of intent to leave at any time.
    • The notice has to be written and intent discerned.
    • Copies of the notice shall be sent to the minor's attorney if any, the DMHP  and the parent.
    • The professional person shall discharge the minor by the second judicial day following receipt of the minor's notice of intent to leave. RCW 71.34.500-530
  • Under a “parent-initiated” admission :
    • A minor receiving inpatient treatment cannot be discharged from the facility based solely on his or her request. RCW 71.34.052.
    • The minor admitted under this section may, however petition the superior court for release from the facility. RCW 71.34.052 (6)
  • Minors involuntarily committed for 180 days of inpatient treatment cannot legally sign themselves out of treatment.